I can't defend this opinion, but it's my opinion that the BMW factory track pads are just Pagid pads in a BMW box. It's just that when BMW sells them they have an EU approval for road safety that Pagid doesn't provide. Pagid says "racing only - don't use on the street". BMW certifies them for street use. The difference in liability insurance costs explains at least part of the price difference.

Oh, I didn't realize that the BMW track pads were designed for street and track use. That might make them a little more appealing from a noise and dust perspective.

Wow, if EU approval for road safety accounts for even 10% of the price difference (about $70) then I'm sure glad I don't have to buy pads in Europe. Pads for any car must cost significantly more over there.